This week, Churchill Labour councillors Cllr Shamim Talukder and Cllr Andrea Mann have been holding ‘mobile surgeries’ and doorknocking in Walden House to offer our support to residents and hear even more of their stories.

Stories of residents who have lived here for decades and who love living here; who grew up here happily and safely; whose children are growing up here; residents who don’t want to leave their homes.

Families who spent their savings – thousands of pounds – on doing up their council flats to make them nice, only to find out now that they will have to move out.

Families who are now being split up as a result of this demolition, because only certain family members’ names are on the tenancy agreement – so the Council only has an official duty of care to that person/s.

Residents whose community, roots, support networks, family, friends and businesses are in this area of Pimlico; whose GP and school is just a few steps away.

Families who live in overcrowded conditions – with no council action for years due to the huge shortage of housing stock that’s been allowed to grow and grow – who understandably want to live in larger homes. But who – like all residents in this situation – are now being offered homes to bid on in that are in completely different parts of London (eg Paddington). Meaning they would have to start all over again, building up the local support network they already have here, in some cases a network that’s 20, 30+ years old.

Residents who have been given no guarantee – by either body – of a right to return to the new social housing that will be built in Walden House’s place. Nor given any kind of guaranteed priority on the new Ebury Bridge Estate, which the Council will be building just yards down the road.

Residents who are, understandably, extremely stressed and worried at the prospect of having to move as a result of the actions of Grosvenor and Westminster Council.

Cllr Talukder and Cllr Mann will keep returning to Walden House – and Cundy Street Flats, which also face demolition – supporting our residents and their community here. And our door is always open. If we can help you, please don’t hesitate to contact us by emailing us at info@churchilllabour.co.uk. Other ways to contact us are listed here.